Teaching & Higher Studies · Updated October 2026
CUET UG ExamEligibility, Syllabus, Exam Pattern, Salary, Cut-Off, PYQs and Free Mock Test
The Common University Entrance Test (Undergraduate) is conducted by the National Testing Agency for admission to undergraduate programmes in central universities and many other participating universities. Candidates choose from language papers, domain subjects and a general test, and universities use the scores for their own merit lists and counselling.
- Type
- Entrance
- Level
- National
- Conducting body
- University
Start for free with CUET UG syllabus study notes, solved previous year papers, real-pattern mock tests and AI Tutor support.
CUET UG exam overview and highlights
About CUET UG
The Common University Entrance Test (Undergraduate) is conducted by the National Testing Agency for admission to undergraduate programmes in central universities and many other participating universities. Candidates choose from language papers, domain subjects and a general test, and universities use the scores for their own merit lists and counselling. It is held once a year after the Class 12 board exams.
The examination process for CUET UG comprises 2 stages: Computer-based test, followed by University counselling. The official syllabus tests candidates across 5 core areas — Languages, Science domain subjects, Commerce domain subjects, Humanities domain subjects, General Aptitude Test — focusing on conceptual clarity, speed, and accuracy. NTA releases normalised scores; each participating university then admits through its own merit list or counselling based on the CUET UG score and the subject combinations it requires.
Key subjects
- Languages
- Science domain subjects
- Commerce domain subjects
- Humanities domain subjects
- General Aptitude Test
What clearing CUET UG leads to
- Admission to BA, B.Sc, B.Com and other undergraduate programmes in central universities such as Delhi University, BHU, JNU and AMU
- Admission to participating state, deemed and private universities
- Admission & Seat Allotment: Admission to undergraduate programmes at central universities and other participating institutions
- Centralised merit counselling and seat allocation through National Testing Agency (NTA) participating institutes
- Validity & Eligibility Window: CUET UG score is valid for that year's admission cycle only
- Access to premier teaching faculty, research laboratories, industry internships, and campus placement cells
Quick facts
- Conducting body
- National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Frequency
- Once a year
- Exam mode
- Online (computer-based test); some cycles have used a hybrid mode with OMR for high-registration subjects
- Languages
- 13 languages for domain subjects and the general test: English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu
- Stages & papers
- 2 stages (3 papers total)
- Negative marking
- One mark deducted per wrong answer (five marks for each correct answer)
- Official website
- cuet.nta.nic.in
CUET UG — Key Highlights & Official Particulars
Complete snapshot of CUET UG conducting authority, frequency, mode, stages, negative marking and official portal.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | CUET UG |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Category | Teaching & Higher Studies |
| Exam Level | National level |
| Exam Type & Purpose | Entrance (Academic Admission & Seat Allotment) |
| Exam Frequency | Once a year |
| Usual Notification & Exam Window | Once a year: notification around February, exam around May, results around July before university admissions |
| Mode of Application | Online on cuet.nta.nic.in |
| Mode of Examination | Online (computer-based test); some cycles have used a hybrid mode with OMR for high-registration subjects |
| Medium / Exam Languages | 13 languages for domain subjects and the general test: English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu |
| Selection Stages | 2 Stages (3 Papers Total): Computer-based test → University counselling |
| Negative Marking | One mark deducted per wrong answer (five marks for each correct answer) |
| Selection / Merit Process | NTA releases normalised scores; each participating university then admits through its own merit list or counselling based on the CUET UG score and the subject combinations it requires. |
| Educational Qualification | Class 12 pass or appearing from a recognised board. Minimum marks and subject requirements are set by each participating university for its programmes. |
| Age Limit | No upper age limit set by NTA; universities may apply their own rules |
| Admission Scope & Seats | Admission to undergraduate programmes at central universities and other participating institutions |
| Scorecard / Certificate Validity | CUET UG score is valid for that year's admission cycle only |
| Competition Scale | More than ten lakh candidates register each year |
| Official Website | cuet.nta.nic.in |
Summary for orientation only, last reviewed October 2026. Check eligibility, dates and pattern in the official notification.
CUET UG exam schedule, vacancy, fee and online application process
Standard annual cycle and application workflow for CUET UG. Confirm exact notification and closing dates on the official University website.
| Examination Event | Typical Calendar Window | Cycle / Mode |
|---|---|---|
| CUET UG Official Notification & Information Bulletin | Once a year: notification around February, exam around May, results around July before university admissions | Once a year |
| Online Registration & Application Fee Window | Typically remains open for 21 to 30 days from the date of notification release | Online Portal |
| Application Form Correction / Edit Window | 2 to 5 days immediately following the close of the online registration window | As Notified |
| Exam City Intimation & Admit Card Release | City slip 10–15 days prior; Hall Ticket / E-Admit Card 4 to 10 days before the exam date | Via National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| CUET UG — Computer-based test | Once a year: notification around February, exam around May, results around July before university admissions | Online (computer-based test); some cycles have used a hybrid mode with OMR for high-registration subjects |
| CUET UG — University counselling | Typically 6 to 12 weeks after declaration of Stage 1 results | Shortlisted Candidates |
| Provisional Answer Key & Objection Representation Window | Within 3 to 10 days after completion of the objective examination shifts | Online Challenge |
| Final Answer Key, Normalized Result & Merit List / Scorecard | Typically 3 to 6 weeks after conclusion of the examination stage | Merit List PDF / Login |
- Seat Intake & Competition
- More than ten lakh candidates register each year. Seat matrix and institute-wise intake across General, OBC-NCL, EWS, SC, ST, and PwBD categories are released by National Testing Agency (NTA) and participating counselling authorities prior to choice filling.
- Application Fee & Payment Norms
- Category-wise examination/registration fee is payable online via UPI, Net Banking, or Debit/Credit Card on the National Testing Agency (NTA) portal. Concessional fee slabs (typically 50% or lower) apply to SC, ST, PwBD, OBC-NCL/EWS, and female candidates as specified in the current CUET UG Information Bulletin.
How to apply online for CUET UG
One-Time Registration (OTR) & Portal Login
Visit cuet.nta.nic.in and complete your candidate registration using a valid email ID, active mobile number, and Aadhaar / government photo ID details. Online on cuet.nta.nic.in.
Fill Academic, Personal & Exam Centre Preferences
Log in to open the CUET UG application form. Enter your qualifying degree/board details, category/reservation status, medium of examination (13 languages for domain subjects and the general test: English, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu and Urdu), and choose 3 to 4 preferred test cities.
Upload Photograph, Signature & Category Certificates
Upload a recent passport-size photograph (in prescribed KB dimensions and light background), scanned running-hand signature, and valid SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS/PwBD/Domicile certificates where applicable.
Online Application Fee Payment & Confirmation Page
Pay the category-wise examination fee via UPI, Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or e-Challan before the closing deadline, then download and preserve the final CUET UG Confirmation Page / Application PDF for admit card and verification stages.
CUET UG eligibility criteria and age relaxation
Candidates applying for CUET UG must fulfil the academic qualification, age limit, nationality and category reservation rules notified by University.
Educational qualification
Class 12 pass or appearing from a recognised board. Minimum marks and subject requirements are set by each participating university for its programmes.
Age limit & relaxations
No upper age limit set by NTA; universities may apply their own rules.
Number of attempts
Candidates may appear in every scheduled examination cycle subject to meeting the academic year/passing window and age criteria in the official brochure.
Nationality & domicile
Indian citizens and, where allowed by the university, foreign nationals.
Other conditions & standards
Candidates must satisfy the prescribed medical fitness, character verification, and document authenticity norms (including valid EWS/OBC-NCL/SC/ST/PwBD certificates in the prescribed format) at the time of verification.
CUET UG — Category-Wise Upper Age Relaxation & Reservation Norms
| Category | Age Relaxation / Rule | Key Conditions & Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) & EWS | No upper age limit set by NTA; universities may apply their own rules. | Must satisfy qualifying examination passing year and minimum aggregate marks criteria. |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) | Up to 5 years relaxation (wherever an age limit applies) + 5% relaxation in qualifying aggregate marks | Requires a valid SC/ST certificate issued by a competent authority in the prescribed central/state format. |
| Other Backward Classes — Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL) | Up to 3 years relaxation (wherever an age limit applies) + 5% relaxation in qualifying aggregate marks | Candidate must belong to the central/state OBC-NCL list with a certificate issued within the notified financial window. |
| Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD / PwD) | Up to 5 to 10 years relaxation + scribe & compensatory time (20 minutes per hour) facility | Applicable to candidates with 40% or more benchmark disability under the RPwD Act, 2016. |
CUET UG selection process and exam pattern
Negative Marking & Evaluation Rule: One mark deducted per wrong answer (five marks for each correct answer). Selection & Merit Weightage: NTA releases normalised scores; each participating university then admits through its own merit list or counselling based on the CUET UG score and the subject combinations it requires.
Stage 1: Computer-based test
Online (computer-based test) • 3 Papers (Section I: Languages, Section II: Domain subjects, Section III: General Aptitude Test) • 150 Questions • 750 Total Marks • Duration: 60 minutes • Candidates choose up to five subjects from languages, domain subjects and the general test.
Candidates choose up to five subjects from languages, domain subjects and the general test. Each subject is a separate objective paper of 50 questions.
Paper / Section Questions Marks Duration Section I: LanguagesReading comprehension, vocabulary and grammar 50 250 60 minutes Section II: Domain subjectsBased on the Class 12 syllabus 50 250 60 minutes Section III: General Aptitude TestGeneral knowledge, reasoning and numerical ability 50 250 60 minutes Stage 2: University counselling
Online (computer-based test); some cycles have used a hybrid mode with OMR for high-registration subjects • Each participating university prepares its own merit list from the normalised CUET scores and conducts counselling or admission.
Each participating university prepares its own merit list from the normalised CUET scores and conducts counselling or admission.
CUET UG subject-wise syllabus and study material
SmartRank organizes chapter-wise study notes for every subject below in 12 languages, with an AI Tutor on hand for doubts. Start exploring for free, and unlock the complete syllabus with Learn or SmartRank Pass.
Languages: Reading comprehension & Verbal ability and rearranging parts
- Reading comprehension: factual, narrative and literary passages
- Verbal ability and rearranging parts
- Choosing the correct word and synonyms
- Antonyms and vocabulary
Science domain subjects — Part I (Physics)
- Physics: Class 12 NCERT units
- Chemistry: Class 12 NCERT units
- Mathematics: Class 12 NCERT units
Science domain subjects — Part II (Biology)
- Biology: Class 12 NCERT units
- Computer Science and Informatics Practices
Commerce domain subjects: Accountancy & Business Studies
- Accountancy
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Entrepreneurship
Humanities domain subjects — Part I (History)
- History
- Political Science
- Geography
Humanities domain subjects — Part II (Sociology and Psychology)
- Sociology and Psychology
- Legal Studies and Mass Media
General Aptitude Test: General knowledge and current affairs & General mental ability and numerical
- General knowledge and current affairs
- General mental ability and numerical ability
- Quantitative reasoning: arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration up to Class 8
- Logical and analytical reasoning
Previous Year Trend Analysis & High-Weightage Topics (CUET UG)
- Recurring multi-concept questions from past CUET UG cycles
- High-yield chapters and section-wise mark distribution patterns
- Statement-based, assertion-reason and matching question formats
- Elimination techniques and negative-marking risk management
- Time allocation strategy across sections and papers
CUET UG admission scope, counselling, seat allotment & career pathways
Admission to undergraduate programmes at central universities and other participating institutions. High percentiles / All-India Ranks unlock top-tier specialisations, scholarships, and high-placement campuses.
Programmes & Institutes Covered
Admission to undergraduate programmes at central universities and other participating institutions.
Exam & Counselling Authority
National Testing Agency (NTA)
Scorecard Validity
CUET UG score is valid for that year's admission cycle only
Seat Reservation Norms
Statutory vertical & horizontal reservations (GEN-EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwBD, Female Supernumerary / State Quota where applicable).
Key Benefits & Institutional Opportunities
- Centralised multi-round online choice filling and merit-based seat upgrades
- Eligibility for AICTE / UGC / Ministry / Institute merit-cum-means scholarships and tuition waivers
- Access to funded research laboratories, industry-sponsored capstone projects, and international exchange semesters
- Direct campus placement eligibility across marquee technology, consulting, core engineering, finance, clinical, or legal recruiters
- PSU recruitment shortlisting or direct fellowship stipends where scores are accepted by public sector enterprises
Academic & Career Progression Roadmap
- Qualify CUET UG with a strong All-India Rank (AIR) / Percentile
- Participate in Centralised / Institute Counselling, GD-PI / Clinical / Studio rounds & Document Verification
- Core Academic Curriculum, Specialisation Electives & Summer Research / Corporate Internships
- Final Campus Placements, PSU Recruitment, Clinical Residency, or Higher Doctoral / Global Studies
- Long-Term Domain Leadership in Industry, R&D, Academia, or Public Policy
CUET UG cut-off trends, score normalization and safe target score
National Testing Agency (NTA) releases the official CUET UG qualifying cut-off and opening/closing ranks (or percentiles) after each exam cycle. While clearing the qualifying cut-off makes you eligible for counselling, admission to top participating institutes depends on your All-India Rank (AIR) and category seat matrix.
CUET UG — Qualifying Standards & Safe Target Benchmarks
| Category | Qualifying Floor / Standard | Recommended Safe Target |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 30% to 40% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 72% to 82% of Total Marks (95+ Percentile in Mock Tests) |
| General — Economically Weaker Section (GEN-EWS) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Other Backward Classes (OBC-NCL) | 25% to 35% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 68% to 78% of Total Marks |
| Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST) / PwBD | 20% to 30% Minimum Qualifying Floor | 58% to 70% of Total Marks |
Score Normalization & Marking Impact
When CUET UG is conducted across multiple shifts or sessions, National Testing Agency (NTA) applies standard score normalization (Equi-Percentile or Mean-Standard Deviation method) to account for any variation in paper difficulty across shifts. Because raw marks are governed by one mark deducted per wrong answer (five marks for each correct answer), maintaining high accuracy (85%+) significantly boosts your normalized score.
Factors Determining CUET UG Cut-Off
- Total number of notified vacancies / available seats across participating cadres and institutions
- Total number of registered vs actual appearing candidates in the CUET UG cycle
- Relative difficulty level of the question paper (and shift-wise variation in multi-shift CBT exams)
- Category-wise vertical (UR, EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) and horizontal (PwBD, ESM, Women) reservation ratios
- Previous year cut-off trajectory and candidate score distribution at the top percentiles
CUET UG admit card, answer key and result guide
City slip 10–15 days prior • Admit Card 4–10 days before exam
CUET UG Exam City Intimation & Admit Card
National Testing Agency (NTA) releases the advance Exam City Intimation Slip followed by the official CUET UG Hall Ticket / e-Admit Card on cuet.nta.nic.in. No hard copy is sent by post; candidates must log in with their Registration Number and Date of Birth / Password to download it.
- Clear A4 printout of the CUET UG e-Admit Card with visible barcode and photograph
- Original valid Government Photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence, or PAN Card)
- 2 recent passport-size photographs matching the image uploaded in the online application
- PwBD / Scribe certificate and undertaking (if availing compensatory time or scribe facility)
Within 3–10 days after the examination
CUET UG Provisional Answer Key & Objection Window
After conclusion of the objective test, National Testing Agency (NTA) uploads the candidate response sheet and Provisional Answer Key on cuet.nta.nic.in. Candidates can calculate their raw score and submit online representations against any ambiguous question or key discrepancy within the stipulated 48–72 hour window.
- Download your recorded Response Sheet PDF and match Question IDs with the Master Answer Key
- Calculate raw score using the official positive and negative marking formula
- Attach standard textbook / NCERT / official gazette proof if challenging any provisional key
- Review the Final Answer Key published after subject-expert scrutiny of all representations
3–6 weeks after stage completion
CUET UG Result, Scorecard & Merit List / Counselling
National Testing Agency (NTA) declares the CUET UG result as a stage-wise Merit List PDF (with roll numbers and category cut-offs) and individual Normalized Scorecards on cuet.nta.nic.in. Shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage, Document Verification, or Centralised Counselling.
- Download and save your official CUET UG Scorecard / Rank Letter PDF immediately upon release
- Verify category-wise and sectional cut-off marks in the official result write-up notice
- Keep original matriculation, degree, caste/EWS, and domicile certificates ready for verification
- Track reserve list / multi-round seat allotment updates on the official website
CUET UG mock tests
Practice in the official CUET UG pattern on the Free plan, and unlock 10 full or sectional mocks every month, unlimited chapter and topic tests, and the CBT Exam Simulator with SmartRank Pass.
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CUET UG Full Mock Test 1
Computer-based test · 50 questions · 60 minutes
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CUET UG Full Mock Test 2
Computer-based test · 50 questions · 60 minutes
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CUET UG Full Mock Test 3
Computer-based test · 50 questions · 60 minutes
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CUET UG Full Mock Test 4
Computer-based test · 50 questions · 60 minutes
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CUET UG Full Mock Test 5
Computer-based test · 50 questions · 60 minutes
CUET UG previous year papers
Papers come with a solution for every question. Read them, or attempt them as timed tests. See all CUET UG previous year papers by year
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Recent CUET UG question papers
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Complete 10-year CUET UG paper archive
Up to 10 years of solved papers with SmartRank Pass (4 years with Learn)
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Predicted questions for CUET UG
High-probability questions and topics for your next exam
How to prepare for CUET UG
- Check the subject combinations each university requires for your course before choosing papers, since the mapping is set by the university and not by NTA.
- Prepare domain subjects from Class 12 NCERT textbooks, because CUET questions are set from that syllabus.
- Each wrong answer costs one mark against five for a correct one, so leave questions where you are guessing between several options.
- Practice the language paper's reading comprehension, which carries a large share of the 50 questions.
- Take the NTA mock test to get used to answering 50 questions in 60 minutes on screen.
- Read the official CUET UG syllabus and information bulletin before you start, and keep it next to your study plan.
CUET UG FAQs
Which universities accept CUET UG?
All central universities, including Delhi University, BHU, JNU and AMU, and many state, deemed and private universities accept CUET UG scores. NTA publishes the list each year.
How many subjects can I choose in CUET UG?
Candidates can usually choose up to five subjects across languages, domain subjects and the general test.
Is there negative marking in CUET UG?
Yes. Each correct answer earns five marks and each wrong answer deducts one mark.
Is CUET UG based on the Class 12 syllabus?
Yes. Domain subject papers are based on the Class 12 syllabus, and the general test covers general knowledge, reasoning and numerical ability.
Can I give CUET UG in Hindi?
Yes. Domain subjects and the general test are available in 13 languages, including Hindi and English.
What is the selection process and exam pattern for CUET UG?
CUET UG is conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA) across 2 stages: Computer-based test → University counselling. NTA releases normalised scores; each participating university then admits through its own merit list or counselling based on the CUET UG score and the subject combinations it requires.
What is the age limit and educational qualification for CUET UG?
Educational Qualification: Class 12 pass or appearing from a recognised board. Minimum marks and subject requirements are set by each participating university for its programmes. Age Limit: No upper age limit set by NTA; universities may apply their own rules.
Which institutes and programmes accept CUET UG scores?
Admission to undergraduate programmes at central universities and other participating institutions. Validity: CUET UG score is valid for that year's admission cycle only.
When is the CUET UG notification released and how can I apply online?
CUET UG is held once a year (Once a year: notification around February, exam around May, results around July before university admissions). Online on cuet.nta.nic.in.
Where can I practice free CUET UG mock tests and solved previous year papers?
Select CUET UG as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Languages, Science domain subjects, Commerce domain subjects, Humanities domain subjects, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact CUET UG pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.
How can I prepare for CUET UG on SmartRank?
Select CUET UG as your target exam on SmartRank to get chapter-by-chapter study material built around its syllabus covering Languages, Science domain subjects, Commerce domain subjects, Humanities domain subjects, solved previous year question papers, topic and full-length mock tests in the exact CUET UG pattern, a timed exam simulator, subject-wise analytics, an adaptive daily study plan and an AI Tutor.